[ricki]

Proper care and inspection of flat kites is essential. Inspect bridles, if they show excessive wear or color loss, REPLACE THEM. Do not use the bridles until they break. I heard about two bridle failures today which both resulted in powered up out of control kites which had to be released.

This is avoidable.

Worn bridle lines can break and potentially jam in pulleys. Powered up, out of control kite behavior may result in some instances. In these cases the only option to the rider may be to set the kite free. Riders should regularly go over where these attachments are and how to set them free. The time to figure this stuff out is NOT during an incident or accident.

Older flat kites and used flat kites may be more prone to such failures. Ignoring wear is a very bad idea. As kites age and people fail to do regular preventive maintenance the occurrence of such failures may increase.

1. Inspect bridle lines, replace them if excessive stray fibers are present, the diameter changes much or if much color loss has occurred.

2. Push the bridle sleaving together and closely examine for wear.

3. Pull the bridles back and forth through the pulleys to verify free movement BEFORE each session. Wash pulleys off with fresh water.

4. EXPECT TO REPLACE bridle lines and pigtails every 3 to 6 months depending upon wear.


Guys this is nothing more than reasonable inspections and preventive maintenance. Failure to do this could result in damage to your kite or to you.